Nederland should still contend without Bellow under center

Although Nederland quarterback Kirby Bellow is out for the season with a knee injury, there's little reason to think the Bulldogs will fall from contention in the District 20-4A race. Many fans remember how well Bellow performed in his first season as a varsity starter, when he replaced Ryan Sampere after he suffered a season-ending injury in the 2007 season opener.

How well Bellow's backup, Tyler Smith, handles the pressure that comes with being a varsity starting quarterback will go a long way in determining Nederland's chances for a district title.

If there is one silver lining to losing Bellow for the season, it is that his injury occurred not only early in the season -- which gives Smith ample time to grow into the role before district play -- but that it came in the game before Nederland's bye. With no game Friday, Smith has two weeks to prepare for Nederland's next game, Sept. 11 against Waller. That can only help.